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David Wilkerson

David Wilkerson (1931 - 2011). American Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and author born in Hammond, Indiana. Raised in a family of preachers, he was baptized with the Holy Spirit at eight and began preaching at 14. Ordained in 1952 after studying at Central Bible College, he pastored small churches in Pennsylvania. In 1958, moved by a Life Magazine article about New York gang violence, he started a street ministry, founding Teen Challenge to help addicts and troubled youth. His book "The Cross and the Switchblade," co-authored in 1962, became a bestseller, chronicling his work with gang members like Nicky Cruz. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City, serving a diverse congregation until his death. Wilkerson wrote over 30 books, including "The Vision," and was known for bold prophecies and a focus on holiness. Married to Gwen since 1953, they had four children. He died in a car accident in Texas. His ministry emphasized compassion for the lost and reliance on God. Wilkerson’s work transformed countless lives globally. His legacy endures through Teen Challenge and Times Square Church.
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David Wilkerson emphasizes that living by faith allows us to trust in the future of God's church, as Jesus promised that the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. He warns that in these perilous times, some may depart from the faith due to false leaders, but simultaneously, God will pour out His Spirit on all flesh, renewing and empowering believers. The sermon encourages believers to remain steadfast and to let God's promises shine through their lives, drawing others to Him. In the midst of challenges, there is hope for a great harvest as the unsaved seek the peace that comes from God. Ultimately, the message is one of trust in God's unwavering presence and power.
God's Spirit Never Runs Dry
If we live by faith, we will not fear for the future of God’s church. “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). This pledge from Jesus has emboldened the faith of generations and it is meant to sustain us now in this generation. Timothy is warned, “In latter times some will depart from the faith” (1 Timothy 4:1). In perilous times such as ours, our leaders will arise “having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). Under the influence of these false leaders, many believers will grow cold or lukewarm and still others will lose their faith altogether and fall away from Christ. Yet, according to Joel, God is going to pour out His Spirit at the same time: “I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days” (Joel 2:28-29). The Psalmist writes, “You send forth Your Spirit … and You renew the face of the earth” (Psalm 104:30). God’s Spirit has never been depleted; he can pour out as he pleases. In the midst of calamitous times, there will be a great harvest. The unsaved are going to turn to believers and cry, “God is clearly with you. Tell me, how can I know this peace?” Our God knows the name and address of every proud and lost person and he is reaching out in merciful love to each one. I encourage you, as a believer, to let God speak forth his promises so that others will see your testimony and be drawn to him. Trust in God’s faithful Word: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe” (Proverbs 18:10).
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David Wilkerson (1931 - 2011). American Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and author born in Hammond, Indiana. Raised in a family of preachers, he was baptized with the Holy Spirit at eight and began preaching at 14. Ordained in 1952 after studying at Central Bible College, he pastored small churches in Pennsylvania. In 1958, moved by a Life Magazine article about New York gang violence, he started a street ministry, founding Teen Challenge to help addicts and troubled youth. His book "The Cross and the Switchblade," co-authored in 1962, became a bestseller, chronicling his work with gang members like Nicky Cruz. In 1987, he founded Times Square Church in New York City, serving a diverse congregation until his death. Wilkerson wrote over 30 books, including "The Vision," and was known for bold prophecies and a focus on holiness. Married to Gwen since 1953, they had four children. He died in a car accident in Texas. His ministry emphasized compassion for the lost and reliance on God. Wilkerson’s work transformed countless lives globally. His legacy endures through Teen Challenge and Times Square Church.